The Alexandrinsky Theatre, the oldest of the state theatres of the Russian Empire open to the public, is named after Empress Alexandra Fyodorovna, the wife of Nicholas I. The building where it is located was constructed with her participation, however, the theatre itself was established earlier, on August 30, 1756. This date is considered the birthday of Russian professional theatre. Its official name today is "Federal State Budgetary Institution of Culture 'National Drama Theatre of Russia (Alexandrinsky Theatre)'".

Professional theatre appeared in Russia in the 17th century, when troupes of court comedians, serf actors, and touring foreigners began to perform here. The art of theatre was also taught in spiritual academies. One such student, Fyodor Volkov, saw a performance in Moscow and became fascinated with theatre. Upon returning to Yaroslavl, he founded his own theatre and staged plays by A.P. Sumarokov.

Under Elizabeth Petrovna, known as the "merry queen", the art flourished. Learning about Volkov's theatre, she invited him to St. Petersburg for training. Amateur actors were to become professionals. The theatre was opened by a Senate decree signed by the empress and was located on Vasilievsky Island. A.P. Sumarokov became the director, while F.G. Volkov led the actors.

The early years of the theatre were challenging: there were financial shortages, staffing issues, and musicians complained of fatigue. However, the theatre withstood these trials. Works by Sumarokov, Fonvizin, Voltaire, and Beaumarchais were staged on its stage. In 1783, the theatre moved to a building that now belongs to the Saint Petersburg Conservatory.

In the early 19th century, a wooden Small Theatre was built for the opera troupe of Kazassi, which was soon replaced by a stone building on Anichkov Square. Architect K.I. Rossi developed a design that became an architectural dominant. He argued with Nicholas I over interior details but ultimately conceded on the wall color.

The theatre was built in the Empire style. The main facade faces Nevsky Prospect, and the central entrance is adorned with a sculpture of Apollo's chariot. The hall accommodates 1,700 people and is decorated with velvet and gilding. The building has many auxiliary rooms where props from past eras are stored.

On August 31, 1832, the theatre opened with the tragedy "Pozharsky". Its repertoire included works by Griboedov, Pushkin, Lermontov, Gogol, and Ostrovsky. In 1836, the premiere of Gogol's "The Government Inspector" took place, sparking lively discussions.

After the October Revolution, the theatre was renamed "Gosdrama". Its repertoire solidified with plays by Gorky, as well as 19th-century classics. In 1937, the theatre was named after A.S. Pushkin. During the Siege of Leningrad, the troupe was evacuated, and the building was used by another theatre.

Since 2003, the theatre has been headed by Valery Fokin, who led it out of crisis. In 2013, a second stage of the theatre was opened, equipped with modern halls and museums. The Alexandrinsky Theatre is recognized as a National Treasure of Russia.